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32329 Fine Dining Etiquette Rules in Restaurantshttp://www.bpositivemagazine.com/9-fine-dining-etiquette-rules-in-restaurants/
http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/9-fine-dining-etiquette-rules-in-restaurants/#respondThu, 14 Mar 2019 13:21:06 +0000http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/?p=2248Many people genuinely enjoy is dining out at a restaurant. A fine dining experience can allow you to get out and enjoy a relaxing atmosphere after an eventful day. There are different types of dining establishments for everyone, whether you are somebody who enjoys traditional recipes or have a craving for Italian cuisine. However, you’ll want to practice proper dining etiquette rules while doing so that you don’t embarrass yourself at the restaurant.

The following are eight restaurant etiquette rules you should be following:

Etiquette Rule #1: Put away personal belongings

You may think putting your phone or purse on the table is acceptable, but sadly this isn’t the case. It’s the proper fine dining etiquette rule to always to put your phone and pocketbook in another location.

You’re sure to make a wrong impression if you put these items right on top of the table. It’s a much better idea to keep these beside you in another space.

Etiquette Rule #2: Use the napkin

The first thing you may wish to do is put your napkin in your lap. This restaurant etiquette can allow you to eat without getting food on yourself and is the best thing to do in this situation.

Many restaurants will have your silverware inside the napkin. If this is the case, you’ll want to take these out of the napkin and place next to your plate.

Etiquette Rule #3: Chew your food

Taking the proper amount of time to chew your food is the proper dining etiquette rule. It’s essential to avoid any issues that could result if you try to eat too fast during your meal.

Etiquette Rule #4: Leaving the table

As a general dining etiquette rule, it’s always necessary to excuse yourself before leaving the table. You may have family or friends around you and doing this could help make a better impression.

Providing a simple excuse could be the ideal way to go to the restroom or another location. Doing this can help you feel less stress and more at ease when dining with others.

Etiquette Rule #5: Cutting your food

You don’t want to be too obvious when cutting your diet because this could attract attention. It’s much better to just cut your food in small bits.

Do you want to avoid making too much noise or looking poorly? If so, the ideal way to accomplish this goal is by slowing cutting meat or other foods that you intend to eat.

Etiquette Rule #6: Wait until all have been served

You’ll want to avoid starting to eat until the other people at the table have been helped. In fact, you may never want to be the first one to begin eating because this could always be a bit embarrassing.

However, if you are with a large group, it’s a good idea to wait until all the people that are with have at least received a plate. You can begin to enjoy your food all at the same time, and you won’t feel overwhelmed when doing so.

Etiquette Rule #7: Passing food

If a person at your table does ask you to move a particular type of food, you’ll want to be sure to do so. For instance, is it necessary to give a portion of the bread to another individual?

If so, you never wish to ignore this person but do this politely. It may be necessary to pass several food items to others, and you can do this with ease and without saying much.

Etiquette Rule #8: Avoid reaching

Regardless of how much you may want an issue, you’ll want to avoid reaching across the table to get it. It’s in your best interest to calmly and gently ask another person for the things you need for your plat.

Keep in mind it’s obscene to reach over others at the table. It’s much better to just ask for any of the items you need, such as bread or butter or other condiments. This fine dining etiquette rule will only take a moment to perform. It can allow you to get these items and move on with your meal quickly.

Etiquette Rule #9: Don’t talk when eating

Of course, you’ll want to be sure to avoid talking while you have food in your mouth. This is very rude and will never give a good impression at all. The ideal restaurant etiquette is to just chew and eat your food before you say a word. This is by far the best way for you to act while at a restaurant.

Taking the time to make a few small changes can make a huge difference while you’re eating with others. Don’t feel embarrassed about minor mistakes, but you’ll want to be sure to do the right things. You’ll be proud of yourself when you show others what great fine dining etiquette you genuinely do have!

]]>http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/9-fine-dining-etiquette-rules-in-restaurants/feed/010 Expert Tips on How to Run a Restaurant Successfullyhttp://www.bpositivemagazine.com/10-expert-tips-on-how-to-run-a-restaurant-successfully/
http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/10-expert-tips-on-how-to-run-a-restaurant-successfully/#respondFri, 08 Mar 2019 03:58:11 +0000http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/?p=2192Running a restaurant successfully does not come easily. It is demanding and can become stressful. To be on top of your restaurant operations, you have to be swift with your processes. You should offer outstanding customer service and good quality food that will make your customers come back for more.

Your restaurant should be consistently busy and running efficiently at all times contributing to profits. When you are making a good profit and there are no empty tables, you know that your restaurant is doing well. Here are some expert tips on how to run a restaurant efficiently:

1. Set Specific Goals

You may struggle to find time to set concrete goals for your restaurant. This cannot be neglected or pushed aside for another day. This is the first step to ensuring your restaurant succeeds. Apart from the financial goals, you have to set smaller achievable goals for your restaurant. In order to run a restaurant successfully, the goals you set will help to measure success as well as set standards for the staff.

2. Exceptional Chef

A restaurant chef is a crucial staff member for the restaurant. He or she should be passionate about the restaurant and the food served. They will offer new ideas, develop a selling menu and feel proud to work for your restaurant. No doubt, chef wizards are hard to find especially when they are in demand with all the restaurants operating in the area.

Find out what will make the chef happy to work for your restaurant. He or she would like to be the decision making on the food items and may like to try different cuisines. Let them achieve their personal goals at your restaurant as long as it does not affect your restaurant sales. Just remember that your chef plays a vital role on how to run a restaurant successfully.

3. Food Quality

Good quality food is one component of a successful restaurant. The best service in the world is not going to make up for less than great food served. Of course, food is not the only reason customers come to your restaurant, they also enjoy your atmosphere and appreciate the service.

This is why you should make sure to have the right combination of quality food, ambience and service. If your food has been inspected and certified. Place these certifications where your customers can see them. Let your customers be aware that you know how to run a restaurant successfully.

4. Trained and Experienced Staff

Your staff are important. They are the ones that are interacting with the customers so it is essential that they enjoy working at your restaurant. You have to care for them, listen to their concerns, help them achieve their goals and train them if they lack in the required skills.

5. Outstanding Guest Experience

It is important to look after your customers. They are the reason your business is profitable. To do that you have to keep employees happy, ensure efficient technology and serve the best cuisine. If you have the right product, service and suppliers, you can be sure of delivering outstanding guest experience.

6. Social Media

Make sure your restaurant is visible to both potential and existing customers. Reviews should always be positive and you need to monitor reviews to ensure no negative feedback is posted on your social media platforms. Use your social media platforms to connect with your customers on your new offers, specials or new products offered.

7. Consistent Service

To build a reputation, ensure you deliver consistent service. One day of bad service can result in lost customers and lost revenue. It can go viral on all social media platforms and damage your restaurant reputation. Prevent this by ensuring consistency with your excellent service.

Keep staff content with their work, commend them for their contributions and make them feel important. When staff are treated with respect, they will treat customers the same way. A happy staff will ensure your restaurant is operating successfully.

8. Crafted Menu

Create a stellar menu that is unique and triggers curiosity amongst your customers. Introduce specials that keep changing to have customers wanting to try the daily or weekly specials. The menu is important for planning and purchasing of the ingredients needed for the restaurant to function smoothly. Your chef is key to introducing a workable and delicious menu. Get your chef involved and conduct research on the entire restaurant menu in your area. Accordingly design a menu that is different to your competitors.

9. POS and Inventory System

A Point of Sales connected to your inventory system will keep your restaurant in good shape especially your restaurant’s finances, inventory and operations. The right POS system can streamline your entire restaurant operations from the orders and payments to all the ingredients needed for your recipes.

10. Reliable Suppliers

Work with local farmers who can offer you fresh produce for your restaurant. Overall, find reliable suppliers who contribute to your supply chain management. These suppliers take their relationship with your restaurant seriously and make sure to deliver your inventory on time.

]]>http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/10-expert-tips-on-how-to-run-a-restaurant-successfully/feed/05 Perfect Occasions for Drinking White Winehttp://www.bpositivemagazine.com/5-perfect-occasions-for-drinking-white-wine/
http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/5-perfect-occasions-for-drinking-white-wine/#respondFri, 14 Sep 2018 15:26:29 +0000http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/?p=1689When it comes to wine, buying white wine or red wine both have their advantages. While choosing one over the other would not result in the end of the world, there are certain situations where the type you end up choosing would yield many noticeable benefits. Below are 5 situations where white wine should be chosen over red wine.

1. Matching with particular foods

While there is no particular rule of thumb when it comes to pairing wine with certain foods, there are dishes that compliment or bring out the flavour better when accompanied with white wine. For instance, if you are contemplating a meal that contains cheese, then you should consider pairing it with a bottle of white wine, most preferably a bottle of chardonnay. Its oaky flavor helps to moderate the sharpness of cheddar while its acidity helps to break down the fats.

Other medium or full-bodied white wines would make ideal pairings of various kinds of seafood which include prawns and mussels as well as roasted chicken or goat’s cheese.

2. During summer or warmer seasons

Summer or generally warmer seasons are associated with high temperatures. Therefore, most wine drinkers prefer lighter, sweet wines that are best when served cold. These typically involved buying white wines such as ice wine, Riesling, or Pinot Grigio. There is a popular notion that red wines are best when served a little warmer while white wines are more preferred when cold, making it an ideal refreshment during warmer seasons.

For more refreshing summer wines, lighter and crisper wines are sometimes preferred. Additionally, full-bodied white wines are most suitable during fall and pair well with fall harvest dishes that include squash, potatoes, carrots, and apples.

3. Before or during your main course

When serving wine with foods, following some type of serving order for a more refreshing experience is recommended. Generally, white wines are lighter and drier when compared to red ones. They are therefore ideal when taken before the main course and their fresh flavours and acidity are best enjoyed when taken on a clear palate.

Warmer red wines, on the other hand, may affect your ability to differentiate between most subtle flavours in your main course. Red wines tend to be heavier and since you will be on an empty stomach, you need something light that will not spoil your appetite.

4. During the earlier part of a wine sampling

According to wine experts, light bodied wines should come before full-bodied ones. Specifically, in a wine sampling event, fine and delicate wines are to be served first before more powerful wines. Therefore, consider tasting white wines on a clear palate.

Starting a sampling that features both types of wines with a red wine will result in tannins sticking to your palate and consequently neutralizing the subtle flavours of lighter whites. Also, consider beginning with drier whites and later sweeter whites to avoid an unpleasant taste associated with sugar residue.

5. When you want to relax

A recent report shows that people are more happy and joyful when they consume fruity or floral white wines than red wines. Some even report that white wines help them lower their guard and become significantly more sociable, which could be beneficial if you want to meet people and make new friends.

These emotions experienced when drinking white wine result from sulfites which are found in white wine. The sulfites are commonly known to cause antidepressant and anti-inflammatory effects. Experts say that these emotions could be triggered by the sugar rush caused by the high sugar content in white wines.

]]>http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/5-perfect-occasions-for-drinking-white-wine/feed/06 Different Types of Outdoor Pizza Ovenshttp://www.bpositivemagazine.com/6-different-types-of-outdoor-pizza-ovens/
http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/6-different-types-of-outdoor-pizza-ovens/#respondSat, 11 Aug 2018 19:52:07 +0000http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/?p=1609One of the most loved foods around the globe is likely to be pizza. If you want to enjoy the most flavourful variety, it may be necessary to cook pizza yourself. During the warmer months of the year, it’s ideal to rely on an outdoor pizza oven to do so. The good news is these are available in various types and knowing the perfect one to suit your individual needs is ideal.

1. Deck oven

You may think this type can only sit on the deck, but this isn’t necessarily the case. Deck ovens are similar to that of brick ovens but allow for a more modern use.

If you do cook a lot of pizzas outside, you may want to opt for this type. In fact, many highly known chefs use a deck oven because of it being a great way to make a wide variety of pizzas with ease.

2. Brick oven

If looks are significant to you, it may be in your best interest to select a brick oven. This one may be the most atheistically appealing and can allow you to get the biggest bang for your buck.

Brick will last for decades, and you won’t have to worry about replacing this item for years to come. Other advantages of a brick oven include the pizza boasting a wooden flavour due to being prepared this way.

3. Revolving tray oven

If you like to watch your pizza cooking while it’s in the oven, you may enjoy a revolving tray variety. You can even watch as your meal revolves in this device.

The good news is you may enjoy a slower cooking speed, and this can enhance the flavour of your food. However, keep in mind this type is typically smaller but may be less expensive.

4. Wood burning pizza oven

One way to satisfy your craving for pizza is by opting for a wood burning oven. You can find these in a variety of sizes and costs for that matter.

Being able to enjoy a pizza that boasts an outdoor taste may be something you’ll enjoy doing. However, be sure to have enough firewood on hand before you start dinner.

5. Stone pizza oven

Being able to find the perfect stone for your oven may be a task you’ll want to do. There’ no doubt stone ovens offer a unique look and are sure to be one of the best ways to cook a pizza.

Stone is available in many colours, and this may increase your interest in this option than others. It’s possible to coordinate your pizza oven with the rest of your outside decorations and furniture.

6. Steel pizza oven

If you want an oven that can take the weather elements and deliver good pizza regularly, it’s ideal to choose a steel oven. You can place this outside and count on it for years to come to make great tasting pizzas.

Steel typically won’t rust, and this is another advantage of selecting this device for your pizza cooking pleasure. Of course, you can make many homemade pizzas with ease by choosing a steel oven.

One of the great pleasures of life may be enjoying this food on any day of the week or weekend. Being able to prepare this tasty treat is certain to give you something to look forward to, as well. However, the key to having your pizza turn out as good as you’d like may rest in choosing a top of the line pizza oven. Select the right variety today and enjoy this yummy food tomorrow!

]]>http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/6-different-types-of-outdoor-pizza-ovens/feed/05 Surprising Health Benefits of Goat’s Milkhttp://www.bpositivemagazine.com/5-surprising-health-benefits-of-goats-milk/
http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/5-surprising-health-benefits-of-goats-milk/#respondSat, 14 Apr 2018 17:12:58 +0000http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/?p=1096North American consumers are turning away from cow’s milk in droves. The dairy industry has taken a significant hit in recent years as shoppers select beverage alternatives, such as soy milk, goat’s milk, almond milk, and a myriad of other tasty drinks. In fact, industry observers expect cow’s milk sales to be on the decline for another few years.

So, why exactly are consumers shunning a classic staple of our diets for so long? That’s easy to answer: we want to take better care of our health and our children’s health. Yes, cow’s milk, especially chocolate, can be delicious, filling, and beneficial. But nutrition experts are learning that there are far more benefits to consuming goat’s milk.

Everything from more protein to helping the planet, perhaps it is time that you made the switch, or at least complemented your cow’s milk drinking with goat’s milk drinking. Want to be convinced? Here are five health benefits of choosing goat’s milk over cow’s milk:

1. There’s More Protein in Goat’s Milk

Compare this, if you will:

A glass of cow’s milk contains 3.4 grams of protein.

A glass of goat’s milk contains four grams of protein.

Protein is essential to a long, healthy life. Moreover, the rich goat milk protein is a lot better for you than what’s imbibed from cow’s milk.

2. Rich in Calcium

Once again, compare this, if you will:

A glass of cow’s milk has 120 milligrams of calcium.

A glass of goat’s milk has 134 milligrams of calcium.

One of the reasons why we have been told that we need to drink more cow’s milk is to build and maintain our bones from all of the calcium. However, as it is evident from the previous figures, goat’s milk is a lot richer in calcium than cow’s milk.

3. A Glass Can Support Your Metabolism

Researchers have discovered that there is a connection between the consumption of goat’s milk to a strong metabolism, which is being attributed to the ability to metabolize iron and copper. This is especially crucial for those who have problems with absorption of nutrients and digestion.

4. Stops the Accumulation of Toxins

Farmers do their best, but under today’s conditions, cows are not treated in the best ways.

For instance, to increase milk production, cows are injected with bovine somatotropin and bovine growth hormones. In other words, cows suffer from a lot of toxins, which is then passed down to those who are drinking cow’s milk or eating steak.

Goats do not have such problems. In fact, experts have revealed that goat’s milk is far less toxic and more nutritious than cow’s milk because it isn’t as prevalent in Big Agriculture.

5. It’s Better for the Environment

Many consumers want to find the right balance between feeding themselves the right foods and beverages and doing what is right for the planet.

Indeed, cows are populated rapidly by farmers and they take up a lot of land. Not so for goats.

On average, six goats can live on the same amount of acreage as two cows. That is pretty impressive to find out. Overall, due to their size, the quality of output, and the lack of mass production, goats are better for you and the environment.

Some shoppers may scoff at the notion of goat’s milk. They have may all sorts of misconceptions about the taste and texture of goat’s milk. They won’t know until they try it.

Anything originating from cows are metastasizing into toxic, low-quality products. They are just horrendous for us, which is why more and more people are transitioning to a diverse array of alternatives, such as goat’s milk or rice milk.

Yes, it can be difficult at first, but you will become accustomed to it. And you’ll be glad you made the switch after just the first week or two!

]]>http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/5-surprising-health-benefits-of-goats-milk/feed/05 Essential Kitchen Equipment in a Small Restauranthttp://www.bpositivemagazine.com/5-essential-kitchen-equipment-in-a-small-restaurant/
http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/5-essential-kitchen-equipment-in-a-small-restaurant/#respondSat, 24 Mar 2018 13:31:40 +0000http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/?p=719Running a small restaurant can be hard, especially financially. In the beginning stages of your restaurant, every purchase needs to monetarily benefit your business so you can grow.

The required equipment is one of the larger fixed costs that you will endure which makes choosing the right pieces even more important. There are some pieces of commercial kitchen equipment that can shape and change your restaurant while driving more profit.

The following are some of the best types of equipment that your small restaurant should consider investing in.

1. Coffee or Espresso Machine

A coffee machine is a great additive to any type of business. For the service industry, giving customers a nice cappuccino while they wait can completely change the perspective of the business. The same is true for small restaurants. A good coffee or espresso machine can drive customers into the restaurant, encourage them to try other items on the menu, and drive beverage sales. This is a beneficial investment for every type of restaurant or cuisine as clients order a coffee at any time of day and with almost every type of food.

2. Buffet / Food Displays

A great way to show off your food to either in store customers or passerbys is with a buffet or food display. This piece of equipment is a great way to encourage consumer spending because you are showing them exactly what your product is. For example, placing your dessert options in a display case is much more likely to encourage consumers to buy a dessert after looking at it rather than just seeing options in a menu. This also works for showcasing food in your store window to attract new consumers by portraying how delicious your food is.

3. Undershelves or Hidden Storage

Not only do small restaurants face challenges financially but also with storage space. It can be difficult to maintain a presentable dining area when the kitchen, office, and storage space are all full. A really great investment that all restaurants should have is undershelving or hidden storage. Placing shelving options under chef tables, countertops, bars, or even hidden storage in the dining room will change the layout of your space. This type of equipment is an internal investment that will keep all members of your business clean and organized.

4. Bread Makers

The investment of a bread maker is dependent upon the size of your dine-in clientele and type of small restaurant. Homemade bread can change the clients dining experience in every stage. By providing fresh, homemade bread at the beginning of the meal, you are setting a high quality experience. The investment in a bread maker will give your small restaurant a large competitive advantage as it will greatly increase the flavour and experience in your dish.

5. Patio Heaters

Summer weather provides a great opportunity for restaurant owners as more people are wanting to enjoy the warmer weather by sitting outside and enjoying a nice meal. By investing in a patio heater, you can provide clients with this atmosphere for more time throughout the year. Patio seating is a great way to drive beverage sales, extend your menu, and gain clientele. This investment will enhance your patio and outdoor atmosphere.

There are many different types of restaurant equipment that can change the way you attract and conduct business. Consider beginning with smaller investments, such as a coffee machine or patio heater that will expand your offerings and grow your business with minimal efforts. The above-mentioned types of equipment can be implemented immediately and provide immediate return on investment for your small restaurant.

]]>http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/5-essential-kitchen-equipment-in-a-small-restaurant/feed/05 Wood Selection and Care Tips for Your Pizza Oven http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/5-wood-selection-and-care-tips-for-your-pizza-oven/
http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/5-wood-selection-and-care-tips-for-your-pizza-oven/#respondThu, 25 Jan 2018 11:49:17 +0000http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/?p=458Have you recently acquired or you are considering getting a wood burning pizza kit? One of the things you may be grappling with is choosing the right wood for your outdoor pizza oven. A few tips to guide you as you choose the firewood are given here.

Firewood That Should Not Be Used

Credit: Pixabay

Never use wood which is chemically treated, laminated or which you suspect to be. This is because such wood produces toxins that can get into the air and even your food. You should also avoid using charcoal in your pizza oven. Using charcoal reduces the efficiency as it does not produce a direct flame which enhances heating capacity in the oven. Charcoal produces monoxide, which is a health risk. Wood with high oil or sap contents such as red pine should be avoided. If you decide to use oily wood for flavoring then the resinous bark should be removed to minimize sap content.

Woods Best for Wood Fuel

Credit: Pixabay

The most suitable woods for your pizza oven are the hardwoods such as maple and birch. This is because they are heavier in weight and burn very hot. They produce more heat than other woods. You may choose to use fruitwoods, which are also popular. They are said to add flavor, especially the apple, which is alleged to burn very hot and produces great flavor and aroma. Some of the fruitwoods available include peer and hickory.

In a situation where you do not have hardwoods, you can still use softwoods. You just need to make sure the wood is properly cured and seasoned in order to reduce the sap content. If you remove the bark from the top, it will still reduce moisture and sap content more. You can use untreated woodchips and pellets as fuel and kindling. The amount of heat produced will not be the same amount as in using the wood fuel. The woodchips may not be sustainable as sole fuel for your oven.

Levels of Moisture in Firewood

Credit: Pixabay

The level of moisture in the firewood you use matters. The wood fuel in your oven should not be too dry or have a high moisture content. A moisture content of between 15 % and 20% is acceptable. Wetness and dampness will produce a lot of smoke due to poor burning. This will result in soot and creosote buildup and ultimate reduction in temperatures. Excessively dry wood converts heat energy to undesirable smoke. Proper management of wood fuel demands that you harvest or get firewood in late winter or early in spring to give it time to dry out in summer. A wood moisture gauge would be a good gadget to have in cases where you do not harvest your own wood but depend on sources that you are not sure of.

Management and Storage of Firewood

Credit: Pixabay

Ensure that you always have an adequate supply of quality wood fuel. If you have space, it is recommended that you put up a woodshed for storage of split wood. This will ensure you have a constant supply depending on your needs. This way, you will eliminate the need to hurriedly buy wood fuel from sources you do not know well. A practical woodshed should have a waterproof roof on a raised platform with gaps for sufficient flow of air. Should you find that the wood you have is slightly damp, you can put it in your oven and leave the door ajar after you are through with cooking with the oven.

Preparation for Burning

Credit: Pixabay

You should always cut your wood into 15-inch-long, 3-inch diameter pieces. This is because cut wood burns much brighter and faster than huge round logs. Use much smaller pieces of kindling to start the fire and combine them with natural firelighters if necessary. Don’t use twigs and leaves to get the fire started as they will create too much smoke. Twigs also contain lots of resin that hinders the burn of the wood and can even damage the floor of outdoor pizza ovens.